Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a USD6.5 million fine over damages caused by the grounding of a tugboat and barge on the reef in Dhidhdhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll.
EPA imposed the fine on HRD Infratech Private Limited, the owner of the tugboat Mutha Princess and barge Mutha Pride that ran aground on May 2. The agency stated that a survey of the damages was conducted 10 days after the incident with the involvement of the owner's surveyor. The survey showed that 4,038sqm of the reef was damaged amounting to USD6.6 million in damages.
However, the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act only allows a maximum fine of USD6.5 million to be issued. As such, the owner has been given one month to pay the amount. EPA stated that it will initiate the necessary steps to seek compensation through the courts with the Attorney General's Office (AGO) based on the outcome of the appeal stage of the case.